Page 26 of What the Heart Knows

“Where would you like to go?”

“Perhaps the Salt Hall grounds to explore the property? You did invite me to tour properties with you.”

“The idea’s agreeable to me, but not at Salt Hall. On careful thought, I’ve decided it will not suit my needs. I want to be closer to Fenwick, if I remain in the area.”

“Where then?”

“That empty parcel I told you of. The one near Trout Creek.”

“The empty parcel then.” She signaled the grays into motion.

Were he honest with himself, he couldn’t imagine settling anywhere other than Fenwick on Sea. Nor could he picture any other woman sharing his home than Miss Margaret Fenneman. When did his admiration for her character become more? When did respect and appreciation become love?

Love?

“I was relieved to receive Mr. Beuth’s note,” she said. “I didn’t know if my message would reach you, and I couldn’t think of anyone else who might be able to help.”

“Your confidence flatters me, Meg. I’ll do all in my power to lend you aid. However, at the moment, I’m uncertain how best to render assistance. Tell me, is the assistance you wish from me aid in breaking up the smuggling ring?”

“Among other things.”

“Such as?”

“Mr. Beuth confessed he told you of my father’s plan for me to wed Brookbank. I despise the man for more reasons than I can count, but mostly for coercing my father into committing crimes.”

“Your father performed those crimes nonetheless.” The statement lacked empathy, but Kit couldn’t allow any misunderstanding about his certainty of Squire Fenneman’s guilt.

Her shoulders dropped a bit, but her hands on the reins remained steady. “I know coercion’s no excuse, especially when Father possessed ample opportunity to change his ways and report Brookbank to the authorities.”

“I’m glad you understand, Meg.” Kit wanted to hold her and comfort her, but the carriage and propriety prevented him. “Do you also understand your father will have to pay the price of his law-breaking?”

“Yes. He’ll lose everything, perhaps even his life, though I plan to make a plea for some clemency.”

“What your father loses, you lose as well.”

“Probably. However, I’ve skills in estate management Fenwick’s absentee land holders might find useful.”

“Think you they would hire a woman for such work?”

“Our location, off the beaten path, makes my identity as a woman less of a factor than if I were to be managing a place in a more populus area, especially one where I was not already known.”

“You’ve given this much thought.”

“When I became aware of the extent of Father’s crimes, I knew I would have to accept a great deal of change in my life. I also have skills appropriate to be a governess. Were I to do that, I’d look for a position with a family who travels, as I should very much like to see some of the world.”

“I’m glad to know you are planning carefully for your future. However, if you don’t escape your current dilemma, all those plans will be for naught.”

“Precisely. Have you any course of action to recommend?”

“Don’t go home?”

“Where would I stay that Father and Brookbank wouldn’t find me?”

“You must have some friend or neighbor in Fenwick willing to take you in.”

“Several households might take me. However, I’ll not put my friends at risk. Brookbank would terrorize the entire village until someone gave me up.”

Kit fell silent while she negotiated the curricle around an especially tight curve.